Humbug survey

Invoicing group Close Invoice Finance asked 200 transport firms what effect Christmas had on their business, with 61% of respondents claiming it takes two weeks for them to get back on track after the holiday. Almost 60% said Christmas was 'financially damaging' and 7% even claimed the festive period should be scrapped.

Simon Cook, managing director of Close Invoice Finance's northern operation, said: 'The Christmas season increasingly affects productivity, distracts employees and can place a considerable strain on a company's finances.'

The survey also found that 50% of businesses cited the festive period was often used as an excuse for late payment, 46% said staff were less focused and 68% did not look forward it.